Writers need a variety of tools to be strong writers. They need pens and pencils, paper, notebooks, folders, organizers, sticky notes, small note pads, and anything else that you find useful. You do not need all of these items, but you will need something to write with, something to write in, and some way of organizing your writing and tools. Beginning writers often try out different ways of organizing their writing and tools and may change their organizational techniques at times. I suggest that over the break, the writers and their parents make a visit to Target or some other store where you can purchase writing supplies at a reasonable price, and see what strikes the writer’s interest. There is probably no reason to spend more than $10 on supplies this first time around. It is important that the writer choose his/her tools. Writing is a highly personal process. Make the tools meaningful and personal as well. If you have a favorite pen, use it! If you have a favorite notebook, use it! If a High School Musical notebook energizes you to write, get it! If you can’t wait to get put some writing in your Pokemon binder, then get the binder! I think you get the point.

Secondly, avid writers write frequently. Over the break, take some time to collect ideas for writing (pictures, old ticket stubs, pamphlets from places you visit, etc.) and begin writing anything you like. If you have writing from last year, collect it together and put it somewhere. You may want to refer to it later, or make it better, or completely change it all together. We’ll talk more about this soon in the next session.

Over the break, I will continue to update the website with ideas and tools that you might find useful, so check back frequently! Also, I highly encourage parents and students to subscribe to the site so you will find out if there’s been anything new posted within a day of it’s posting.

Leave a comment if you have any questions or comments! Have a wonderful break!